Russia Launches 96 Drones and Missiles in Overnight Attack on Ukraine
Kyiv, July 20, 2026 — Russia launched a large-scale overnight aerial attack on Ukraine, deploying 96 drones and several missiles, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. Air defense units intercepted the majority of the incoming targets, while strikes and falling debris caused damage in several regions.
The Ukrainian Air Force said Russia attacked using 96 Shahed-type attack drones and decoy unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as Iskander-K cruise missiles launched from Russian territory. The assault targeted multiple regions across the country during the night of July 19–20. (Ukrainska Pravda)
Most Aerial Targets Intercepted
According to the Air Force, Ukrainian air defenses shot down or neutralized 84 aerial targets, including attack drones and missiles. Officials said fighter aircraft, mobile fire groups, electronic warfare units, and air defense missile systems all took part in repelling the attack.
Military officials noted that several drones disappeared from radar after being disrupted by electronic warfare systems, while others were intercepted before reaching their intended targets.
Damage Reported in Several Regions
Despite the high interception rate, some drones and missiles reached their targets, causing damage in a number of Ukrainian regions. Local authorities reported strikes on civilian and industrial infrastructure, while emergency services responded to fires and damaged buildings.
In the Kyiv region, warehouse facilities caught fire after being hit during the overnight attack, prompting one of the largest firefighting operations in recent months. More than 200 emergency workers, helicopters, and specialized equipment were deployed to extinguish the blaze.
Authorities also reported damage in other regions, with assessments continuing as emergency crews inspected affected sites and documented the consequences of the attack.
Continuing Air Campaign
Russia has continued to carry out large-scale drone and missile attacks against Ukraine, combining long-range strike weapons with large numbers of unmanned aerial vehicles in an effort to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses.
Ukraine, meanwhile, has expanded its network of air defense systems and electronic warfare capabilities, allowing it to intercept a significant share of incoming aerial threats. Military officials say these systems remain essential for protecting civilians and critical infrastructure.
Russian authorities did not comment on the overnight operation.
Image: Illustrative
